The director is said to be "showing interest" in the two actresses for the female lead role, although no formal talks have taken place, reported Variety.

Newcomer Taron Egerton, who has appeared in TV series Inspector Lewis, has landed one of the supporting roles in the big screen adaptation of Mark Millar's graphic novel after beating competition from Jack O'Connell and Attack The Block's John Boyega.

Colin Firth is already on board to play a veteran secret agent who enrols his nephew (Taron) into a British spy school, while Sir Michael Caine is tipped to play the head of the spy organisation.

Matthew, who co-wrote the script with Kick-Ass screenwriter Jane Goldman, apparently offered the villain role to Tom Cruise and Leonardo DiCaprio, who both passed.

Shooting is expected to start in the autumn, in time for a 2014 release.

Emma, who recently starred in Sofia Coppola's The Bling Ring and Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg's comedy This Is The End, will next be seen in Darren Aronofsky's Biblical drama Noah alongside Russell Crowe and Sir Anthony Hopkins.

COMMENT RULES: Comments that are judged to be defamatory, abusive or in bad taste are not acceptable and contributors who consistently fall below certain criteria will be permanently blacklisted. The moderator will not enter into debate with individual contributors and the moderator’s decision is final. It is Belfast Telegraph policy to close comments on court cases, tribunals and active legal investigations. We may also close comments on articles which are being targeted for abuse. Problems with commenting? customercare@belfasttelegraph.co.uk

Horoscopes

Your Horoscopes by Russell Grant

Pisces:

Your income will get a big boost, thanks to an impressive work assignment. You will be very busy in the days ahead, which is beneficial. You have a tendency to rest on your laurels when you have lots of free time. A demanding schedule forces you to step up your game. If your energy starts to flag, make time for daily exercise. It seems counterintuitive, but moving your body can actually refresh you. Working with a partner is strongly advised. A collaborator will attend to practical matters.More